NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is facing criticism at home following India’s effective withdrawal from Iran’s Chabahar Port project.
India’s main opposition party, the Congress, strongly criticized the move and released a video accusing Prime Minister Modi of “surrendering once again before Trump.” The party said that while the government had earlier portrayed the Chabahar agreement as a major diplomatic success, it is now silent over relinquishing control of the port.
In its statement, the Congress alleged that Prime Minister Modi bowed to pressure from the United States, causing economic and strategic damage to India. “It is unfortunate that Modi bent before Trump and harmed national interests,” the party said.
The development comes after the reimposition of US sanctions on Iran, which has dealt a significant blow to India’s involvement in the strategically important port. Although India had taken over the management of Chabahar Port for a 10-year period in 2024, renewed American sanctions have forced New Delhi to practically disengage from the project.
Before the sanctions took effect, India paid Iran the agreed amount of 120 million dollars. Following India’s withdrawal, Iran is now free to use this investment to continue port operations without Indian participation.
Chabahar Port has long been viewed as a key strategic asset for India, providing access to Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan.
India’s exit from the project is therefore being seen by critics as a setback to its regional influence and long-term strategic goals.
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